The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team has signed 18-year old goalkeeper Curtis Anderson. Anderson is a product of Manchester City’s academy and won the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup with the English Youth National Team.

“When I heard that Charlotte Independence were interested in signing me, I quickly decided that this was too good an opportunity to miss out on.” Said Anderson. “Especially the chance playing in senior football for the first time in my young career.”

Barrow-in-Furness born Anderson won the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, starting six out of seven games, including all games in the knockout stage. Anderson recorded two clean sheets and even converted a penalty in a 5-3 shootout win versus Japan during the Round of 16.

“Curtis is an excellent young goalkeeper,” said Independence Head Coach Jim McGuinness. “We’re very fortunate to bring in a talent that has a lot of high-profile youth experience at club and international levels.”

At 11 years-old, Anderson signed his first contract for Manchester City after a successful stint at Blackpool FC’s academy. Last season, he featured in U-23 Premier League sides, the UEFA Youth League and trained with Manchester City’s first team.

“I spoke with the manager Jim McGuinness,” said Anderson. “His enthusiasm and positivity in wanting me to be part of his plans just convinced me even further that this is a move that could possibly help me develop my career more quickly than I could in England.”

Anderson is represented by the Triple S Sports & Entertainment Group. The agency represents other England goalkeepers including Jack Butland (currently with the England senior team) and Angus Gunn (currently with the England U-21 team) as well as Washington DC United striker Wayne Rooney.